has removed over four million pounds of industrial contaminants throughout the region. By employing geologists, environmental scientists, biologists, chemists, and engineers, BSTI develops powerful strategies that tackle all facets of local environmental challenges. In 2016, Debbie acquired a womanowned business certification for BSTI. “It’s harder for women in the business world, especially in the sciences,” Debbie explains. “We spent our first 17 years building our company to its best before getting certified. Now, it’s helped us collaborate with other diverse businesses as well as meet the requirements of our clients and governmental agencies.” As they celebrate their 25th anniversary this year, Debbie reflects on serving Delawarians and its connection to her brand and vision. “We have deep roots in Delaware,” Debbie states. “Five of our staff are University of Delaware graduates and two other employees spent most of their careers developing regulations that still benefit Delawarians today. We’ve brought on these prior regulators and are looking to get more involved in brownfields and other projects along the Christina River to revitalize to its prior state. Our team is determined as ever to continue environmental remediation throughout the First State.” For 25 years, BSTI has been dedicated to helping the Delaware business community solve their complex environmental problems. Visit www.bstiweb.com to learn more.
DELAWARE BUSINESS
| Ma y / Ju ne 2024
AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT:
Emily Leach
The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s Ambassador Committee serves as outward-facing representatives of the organization with three key goals: fostering new relationships; engaging member businesses and the community as a whole; and amplifying the voice and mission of the State Chamber. Meet our featured ambassador: Emily Leach, vice president of community accounts and partners for Visa’s Mid-Atlantic region.
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How long have you been in Delaware? What kept you here for your professional career? I was born and raised in Wilmington. My degree from the University of Delaware is in communications and business marketing. After college, I moved to New York to work as an advertising account executive supporting the Olive Garden account - my team’s ad “Soup, Salad, Breadsticks for $5.99” was in its prime across TV, radio, and print advertising. How times have changed! After a few years, I moved back to Wilmington and joined Bank of America in their Learning & Leadership Development division. Eight years later, I was ready for a life change and moved out to San Francisco to take a sales role at Visa where I’ve been employed for the last 9 years. I love it! The pandemic brought me home and I now lead Visa’s Mid-Atlantic region.
What most excites you about the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and its mission? The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce brings together the best of the best in the local community to problem solve and promote business across the state. The State Chamber not only focuses on our core state businesses but is always at the forefront of the small business community and up-and-coming industries that are well-suited to come to Delaware. What made you want to be an ambassador for the State Chamber? Getting to work with like-minded, forward-thinking individuals who are also passionate about our state. Part of my role at Visa is also community engagement, so meeting other DSCC ambassadors has broadened my awareness of key issues impacting the local community and where Visa can partner, such as financial education and payments access to underserved communities. What’s one piece of advice you would give to other business professionals? Take the risk and get comfortable with a no. No simply means not all needs are uncovered. What’s your favorite place to visit in Delaware? The beach! I moved to Rehoboth Beach in 2022 as an escape from my business road-warrior lifestyle and it’s been the best experience!
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